My mind was busy and the world seemed to rage everywhere else, but inside it was nearly perfect.

It was a simple meal. As we sipped cranberry ginger ale from our mis-matched glasses (each with a special story) and laughed about jello mixed with potatoes, I found myself saying “Thank you,” over and over, for one perfect day.

Of course there were little spats to settle and rolls that didn’t bake right. But we were together with the people we were meant to be with, and we were safe. What a simple, profound gift. So many people don’t have that this year.